Prepped 4 Anything!

The prepper movement has become more and more mainstream over the last year or two but there are still some with odd reactions. I’m sure we have all heard some of the comments about preppers like they are nuts, paranoid worry warts, and onward. There are many who don't believe that any sort of doomsday scenario will ever occur with in their lifetime. But the doomsday or end of world scenario alone is not the only reason to do a little prepping.

There are reasons which are a little more mainstream and may even make a little more sense even to those of you who don't believe in prepping. We have listed here some reasons to have emergency supplies and stockpiles like many modern day prepper would have. You may want to consider some of these reasons to prep even though you still wouldn't consider yourself a prepper.

Natural Disasters - Most of us live in an area that can be hit by some kind of natural disaster be it a hurricane, tornado, or earthquake. This may not be a doomsday scenario but having a bit of preparedness could go a real long way to making your life easier on you and your family in this sort of situation.

Unemployment/Job Loss - With the economy in the shape its in these days job security is shaky for more Americans then ever before. Having a emergency food and supplies stock could be a huge edge for keeping you and your family fed and house running if you happen to have a sudden job loss or a massive cut in hours

Evacuations - Never know when something happens in your area, which causes you to make a quick evacuation from your home. Having a bug out type bag that can be grabbed quickly containing important documents and supplies can be very important. Having all your important papers and supplies organized can be a lifesaver.

Power Outages - Sudden and possibly extended power outages are something everyone has to deal with at some point. Having some emergency prepper supplies packed away can make a huge difference in keeping your family fed and as comfortable as possible.

House Fire - This could happen to any of us at any time and having a evacuation plan and a bug out type bag could be a life saver. With little to no time to get out of the home to avoid death or injury a little prepping could make the difference in saving the lives of you and your family and getting out some of your important paperwork, information, and supplies.

Mechanical Car Problems - I know not all of us travel in out of the way area's at least on a consistent basis but if you do having a little prepping done could be very important. A breakdown can happen anywhere so having a way to communicate for help along with keeping you and your family hydrated, fed, and warm if needed until help arrives is a must. So a little prepping in this case can go a long way.

Becoming a prepper doesn't mean you have to believe the world is going to end tomorrow or next week but simply being a little more prepared for various situations. You also don't have to have massive stockpiles of food and supplies to be a prepper simply putting away enough to keep you and your family fed and hydrated should something unexpected happen can be enough for you. There is no set way or set of rules for being a prepper each and every one of us can be a prepper in our own way.

Disaster Preparedness for Pets

Emergencies come in many forms, and they may require anything from a brief absence from your home to permanent evacuation. Each type of disaster requires different measures to keep your pets safe. The best thing you can do for yourself and your pets is to be prepared.

Step 1 Get a Rescue Alert Sticker This easy-to-use sticker will let people know that pets are inside your home. Make sure it is visible to rescue workers, and that it includes 1) the types and number of pets in your household; 2) the name of your veterinarian; and 3) your veterinarian's phone number. If you must evacuate with your pets, and if time allows, write "EVACUATED" across the stickers.

Step 2 Arrange a Safe Haven Arrange a safe haven for your pets in the event of evacuation. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR PETS BEHIND. Remember, if it isn't safe for you, it isn't safe for your pets. They may become trapped or escape and be exposed to numerous life-threatening hazards. Note that not all Red Cross disaster shelters accept pets, so it is imperative that you have determined where you will bring your pets ahead of time:

• Contact your veterinarian for a list of preferred boarding kennels and facilities.

• Ask your local animal shelter if they provide emergency shelter or foster care for pets.

• Identify hotels or motels outside of your immediate area that accept pets.

• Ask friends and relatives outside your immediate area if they would be willing to take in your pet.

Step 3 Emergency Supplies and Traveling Kits Keep an Evac-Pack and supplies handy for your pets. Make sure that everyone in the family knows where it is. This kit should be clearly labeled and easy to carry. Items to consider keeping in or near your pack include:

• Pet first-aid kit and guide book (ask your vet what to include, or visit the ASPCA Store to buy one online)

• Disposable litter trays (aluminum roasting pans are perfect)

• Litter or paper toweling

• Liquid dish soap and disinfectant

• Disposable garbage bags for clean-up

• Pet feeding dishes

• Extra collar or harness as well as an extra leash

• Photocopies of medical records and a waterproof container with a two-week supply of any medicine your pet requires (Remember, food and medications need to be rotated out of your emergency kit—otherwise they may go bad or become useless.)

• Bottled water, at least 7 days' worth for each person and pet (store in a cool, dry place and replace every two months)

• A traveling bag, crate or sturdy carrier, ideally one for each pet

• Flashlight

• Blanket (for scooping up a fearful pet)

• Recent photos of your pets (in case you are separated and need to make "Lost" posters)

You should also have an emergency kit for the human members of the family. Items to include: Batteries, duct tape, flashlight, radio, multi-tool, tarp, rope, permanent marker, spray paint, baby wipes, protective clothing and footwear, extra cash, rescue whistle, important phone numbers, extra medication and copies of medical and insurance information.

Step 4 Choose “Designated Caregivers” This step will take considerable time and thought. When choosing a temporary caregiver, consider someone who lives close to your residence. He or she should be someone who is generally home during the day while you are at work or has easy access to your home. A set of keys should be given to this trusted individual. This may work well with neighbors who have pets of their own—you may even swap responsibilities, depending upon who has accessibility.

When selecting a permanent caregiver, you’ll need to consider other criteria. This is a person to whom you are entrusting the care of your pet in the event that something should happen to you. When selecting this "foster parent," consider people who have met your pet and have successfully cared for animals in the past. Be sure to discuss your expectations at length with a permanent caregiver, so he or she understands the responsibility of caring for your pet.

Step 5 Evacuation Preparation If you must evacuate your home in a crisis, plan for the worst-case scenario. If you think you may be gone for only a day, assume that you may not be allowed to return for several weeks. When recommendations for evacuation have been announced, follow the instructions of local and state officials. To minimize evacuation time, take these simple steps:

• Store an emergency kit and leashes as close to an exit as possible.

• Make sure all pets wear collars and tags with up-to-date identification. Your pet's ID tag should contain his name, telephone number, and any urgent medical needs. Be sure to write your pet's name, your name and contact information on your pet's carrier.

• The ASPCA recommends micro-chipping your pet as a more permanent form of identification. A microchip is implanted in the animal's shoulder area, and can be read by scanner at most animal shelters.

• Always bring pets indoors at the first sign or warning of a storm or disaster. Pets can become disoriented and wander away from home during a crisis.

• Consider your evacuation route and call ahead to make arrangements for boarding your pet outside of the danger zone at the first sign of disaster.

Step 6 Geographic and Climatic Considerations Do you live in an area that is prone to certain natural catastrophes, such as tornadoes, earthquakes or floods? If so, you should plan accordingly.

• Determine well in advance which rooms offer safe havens. These rooms should be clear of hazards such as windows, flying debris, etc.

• Access to a supply of fresh water is particularly important. In areas that may lose electricity, fill up bathtubs and sinks ahead of time to ensure that you have access to water during a power outage or other crises.

• In the event of flooding, go to the highest location in your home, or a room that has access to counters or high shelves where your animals can take shelter.

If emergency officials recommend that you stay in your home, it's crucial that you keep your pets with you. Keep your Evac-Pack and supplies close at hand. Your pets may become stressed during the in-house confinement, so you may consider crating them for safety and comfort.

Special Considerations for Birds

• Birds should be transported in a secure travel cage or carrier.

• In cold weather, make certain you have a blanket over your pet’s cage. This may also help reduce the stress of traveling.